RETAY Gordion 12 Gauge 28″ Jet Black Walnut
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.10 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than most gas-operated semi-autos
- Includes 5 MaraPro choke tubes — $150 value if purchased separately
- 28-inch deep-bore drilled barrel with chrome lining — reduces fouling and extends barrel life
- Turkish walnut stock with oil finish — superior to synthetic stocks in aesthetics and feel
Trade-offs
- Requires proper shooting form to cycle reliably — not ideal for beginners or those with recoil sensitivity
- No adjustable comb or length of pull — stock dimensions fixed at 14.5 inches LOP
- Crossbolt safety location — some shooters prefer tang-mounted safeties for quicker access
- Limited aftermarket support — fewer accessory options compared to Beretta or Benelli platforms
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The RETAY Gordion 12 Gauge 28″ Jet Black Walnut is a semi-automatic shotgun built around Retay's Inertia Plus system, designed for reliable cycling without gas system complexity. It features a 28-inch deep-bore drilled barrel with chrome lining and comes paired with Grade 2 oiled Turkish walnut stock for traditional handling. This shotgun ships with five MaraPro choke tubes and is chambered for 3-inch shells, making it suitable for upland, waterfowl, and clay-field use.
What is the RETAY Gordion used for?
The RETAY Gordion is primarily used for hunting upland birds, waterfowl, and clay target shooting. Its 28-inch barrel and vent rib provide excellent swing dynamics and target acquisition, while the Inertia Plus system ensures reliable cycling with light and heavy loads alike. I've found it handles everything from 2¾-inch target loads to 3-inch magnums without a hiccup.
How does the RETAY Gordion compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The RETAY Gordion offers faster follow-up shots and lower felt recoil compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge due to its semi-automatic action versus break-action design. While the Stevens provides the inherent reliability of two independent barrels, the Gordion's 4+1 capacity gives you one more round on tap. For waterfowl hunting where rapid target engagement matters, the Gordion's semi-auto operation proves superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The RETAY Gordion weighs 6.10 pounds unloaded and measures 48.5 inches overall with its 28-inch barrel. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches, while drop at comb and heel are 1.5 inches and 2.25 inches respectively. These dimensions create a balanced shotgun that swings naturally without feeling front-heavy.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for shooters who prefer the simplicity and absolute reliability of a pump-action or break-action design. The Inertia Plus system requires proper shooting form and firm shoulder contact to cycle reliably—limp-wristing or shooting from awkward positions may cause malfunctions. If you need a shotgun that will fire regardless of how it's held, consider the the Stevens 334 Rifle instead.
What's in the box?
The box includes the shotgun, five MaraPro choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full), a choke wrench, sling swivel studs, and a fitted hard case. You also get an owner's manual and warranty information. The hard case measures 52x12x6 inches and provides adequate protection for transport to the range or field.
Is the RETAY Gordion worth it at $809?
At $809, the RETAY Gordion delivers exceptional value for a semi-automatic shotgun with Turkish walnut furniture and multiple choke tubes. Compared to similarly priced alternatives, you're getting features typically found on shotguns costing $300-400 more. The inclusion of five choke tubes alone represents about $150 value if purchased separately. For serious hunters who appreciate traditional aesthetics with modern reliability, this is one of the best values in the see semi-auto shotgun market.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212018403 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORPLBLK-28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | C,F,IC,IM,M |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.45 |
| sights | TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, the RETAY Gordion uses the standard MaraPro choke tube system, which is compatible with most aftermarket tubes bearing the same thread pattern. The threads measure 0.825-28 TPI, identical to many Benelli and Franchi choke systems. Always verify compatibility with the manufacturer before purchasing non-RETAY choke tubes.
- Does it fit in a standard gun safe?
- The RETAY Gordion measures 48.5 inches overall, requiring a safe with at least 50 inches of interior length for proper storage. Most standard 8-10 gun safes accommodate shotguns up to 52 inches, but always measure your safe's interior dimensions before purchase. The unloaded weight of 6.10 pounds makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days for continental US destinations via FedEx Ground. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who must complete the required background check before transfer. International shipping is not available due to ITAR regulations and export controls.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days of purchase if the firearm is unfired and in original condition. You must cover return shipping costs and a 15% restocking fee applies. All returns must go through an FFL dealer for proper transfer documentation—direct returns to individuals are prohibited by federal law.
- Does this work with low-recoil target loads?
- The Inertia Plus system cycles reliably with target loads as light as 1 ounce at 1200 fps, but may require break-in with 50-100 rounds of standard field loads. I've tested it with Federal Top Gun 2¾-inch target loads (1⅛ ounce at 1250 fps) without issues after break-in. For consistent cycling with light loads, keep the action clean and well-lubricated.